Searching for that perfect gift for a visually impaired friend or family member? Look no further than Keystone Blind Association.

The Keystone Blind Association opened its new adaptive aids store, "Eye"deas, on Nov. 11. Its inventory includes a variety of gadgets and accessories designed to make life easier for those who have limited or no eyesight -- just in time for Christmas.

"A lot of people want to buy gifts (for the visually impaired) but don't know what to do or how to go about it," said Debbie Fait, communications and development director. "Eye"deas fills this need.

Merchandise ranges from large-piece puzzles to large-button remote controls and telephones.

"We have a lot of talking devices," said Raedine Listopad, rehabilitation teacher at Keystone Blind Association, showing off a cube-shaped clock that announces the time when pressed. Watches in a glass case on the counter also talk, but they look just like ordinary watches.

"It's very important for people who are visually impaired to go about being independent and having as close to the life they did before they lost their vision," said Mrs. Listopad, holding an elegant gold watch. "Having a watch that looks like everyone else's is important."

For those who don't wear watches, "Eye"deas also carries a talking keychain that announces the time. Talking thermometers are also available.

Other items at the store include large-print crossword and word-search puzzles, writing guides for sheets of paper and checks, two-sided spatulas to make flipping food easier, magnifying mirrors and measuring cups, clocks and calendars with large printing. Cookbooks are available in both large print and on cassette.

Anything at the store can also be ordered in Braille, Mrs. Listopad said.

One of the store's best-selling items is the liquid level indicator, a small device powered by a 9-volt battery that is fastened onto a cup or glass. When liquid poured into the cup reaches a certain level, the device sounds an alarm.

"No more spilled coffee!" Mrs. Listopad said.

Everything on display at the store is already working, so shoppers can try out the merchandise before buying it.

Most of the items available at the store come from catalogues Keystone Blind Association distributes to its clients.

"This eliminates the two-week wait," Mrs. Listopad said. "We went ahead and ordered what we sell the most in the rehab department."

Volunteers such as Millie Anzenberger of Hermitage staff the store.

"It's been very interesting ... dealing with people every day," said Mrs. Anzenberger, who has a blind daughter-in-law. "I enjoy it so much."

"Eye"deas has its own handicapped-accessible entrance behind Keystone Blind Association. Shoppers can get to the store via an access road between KBA and St. Anthony's Church.

Hours for "Eye"deas are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and 2 to 4 p.m. Friday until Christmas. For more information, call Keystone Blind Association at (724)347-5501.